From:
shurcool@infi.net
Date: 2001-07-27 08:06:00 UTC
Subject: Re: cauliflower ear---what is it?
--- In Ferret-Health-list@y..., pamsferrets@a... wrote:
> I have never heard of cauliflower ear before...is there a medical
term for
> that? How is it contracted?
> Thanks! Pam
Another name for cauliflower ear is a hematoma. It is called
cauliflower because it swells and is all lumpy and bumpy much like
cauliflower. It is very common with boxers (the sport, not the
dog). It is caused by trauma to the ear. In Lily's case, I think it
was from Blaze picking on her as she always did. It can be caused by
some of the usual ferret antics like bouncing off the walls. In
Lily's case, Doc said that draining it would probably not help as it
would fill up again. Instead they drained it and then did several
stitches so the pockets couldn't refill. It left her ear a little
deformed (I think it gave her character) and with a few more folds in
it but it never recurred.
When I first saw it I nearly had a stroke. It was, of course, after
hours. I called the emergency vet to let them know I was on the
way. I thought it was a huge tumor. Before I got out of the house,
they called back (Caller ID, I guess) and put the vet on the phone.
He immediatley knew what it was and suggested I just take her to her
regular vet in the a.m. What a great guy! Saved me bunches of money.
Katharine